Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, (‭Hebrews‬ ‭12‬:‭1‬ ESV)

This morning I was talking with a friend who said he was “just getting back into running.” When asked how far he ran last night he replied: “Six miles.”

Clearly his version of “getting back into running” is different than mine.

Training for a marathon is entirely different than training for a sprint.

Our spiritual lives are marathons, yet we often run in sprints. We press in for a while, but then grow weary and lose some ground. Then we get inspired again.

God calls us to run our race with endurance. He says: “Don’t be weary in well doing,” and “Press on toward the goal!”

There are three disciplines that effectively train us for the marathon of life:

1. Daily time in the Word of God
2. Daily time in Worship
3. Daily time in Prayer

For a runner, not every day of training is inspiring. There are days when you are tired and don’t desire to train. But strength comes with consistency.

Not every day of your spiritual journey will be awe-inspiring; but your daily training makes you strong so you can run with endurance!

Father,
Help me run my race with endurance, being reminded of the prize that awaits me. Strengthen me by Your Word, refresh me through times of worship, and empower me as I pray.

In Jesus’ name, amen!